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"We live in a digital age, and we have to make sure we engage with people," said a Cabinet Office spokeswoman.

"Andrew's appointment will allow to use things like twitter to get our message across. During the current swine flu outbreak we have used digital mediums to get our message across, and we believe it is very effective as so many people rely on the internet to get their news."

The Cabinet Office would not reveal Mr Stott's exact salary, but confirmed it would be up to £160,000.

Tom Watson MP, Minister for Digital Engagement said: "I am delighted that Andrew Stott will be leading on these vital programmes for government.

"Together we will transform the way that government engages with citizens through the internet and free up government data, so that people can use public services more effectively."